Spike in tire thefts in Pawtucket

By: Samantha Lavien

Slavien@abc6.com

Twitter: @SLavienABC6

Over the past several months dozens of tires and rims have been stolen in the overnight hours all around the city of Pawtucket .

“People are waking up in the morning getting ready to go to work, they come out, and their car is either on the ground or up on blocks,” said Sgt. Paul Brandley.

Brandley says since January roughly 15 people have fallen victim to the crime. He says the cars targeted tend to be newer models ranging in years from 2012 to 2015.

“The vehicles are mostly, not exclusively but mostly foreign manufacturers and not necessarily high end vehicles,” said Brandley.

Resident’s we spoke with are irritated to hear that people are doing this.

“It’s petty. People are hurting today for money. I can’t imagine losing tires. Tires can be costly,” said Luis Morales.

In order to protect yourself, Brandley recommends parking in well lit areas, locking your car and setting your CAR alarm. He’s also asking people keep an eye out.

“Really in order for us to make major headway in this case in such a random crime of opportunity, the big thing is partnering with the public. We need people in the neighborhoods to report suspicious conditions,” said Brandley.

(C) WLNE 2015